On the Run In… Squamish, B.C.
In Squamish, B.C., the mountains meet the ocean.
There’s a reason this friendly and vibrant little town, nestled in the Coast Mountains of B.C., deserves its official title of Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada. For so long, Squamish was only a passers-by town en route to Whistler from Vancouver, but it’s now a four-season adventure destination of its own. The town has captivated the hearts of all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. Squamish is home to world-class rock climbing crags, while runners and mountain bikers share an extensive trail network. Howe Sound attracts kite surfers in the summer, and when the snow falls, backcountry skiers arrive in town.
For runners, Squamish has it all. Flat routes located in the valley, steep and undulating rugged mountain trails, amazing single track routes in the high alpine, you need some serious time to truly experience everything. The area also hosts a diverse selection of trail races.
On The Town:
Running Groups
The Off-Road Training School offers private and group running sessions. Hire your own running guide, improve your technique and really get to know the local trails. Visit www.challengebychoice.ca for more info.
Trail Gear
In downtown Squamish, you’ll find the friendly folks at Valhalla Pure Outfitters able to help you with any last-minute items or a new pair of runners. Pick up a copy of the Squamish Trail Map here and you’re good to go. 1200 Hunter Place, Squamish Station Mall.
Coffee
Beans Brackendale in the heart of Eagle Run serves the best americanos in town. This local favourite is conveniently close to the trails. 41340 Government Rd.
If downtown, try the new and funky Zephyr Café for a great organic selection of coffee and fresh organic items. 38084 Cleveland Ave.
Food and Drinks
Try a local pint of beer downtown at the Howe Sound Inn & Brewing Company. A popular local hangout with live music and great views of the Stawamus Chief. 37801 Cleveland Ave.
Enjoy your favourite martini and a quaint atmosphere at the Burrow Tapas Lounge in the Garibaldi Highlands. Open late. 40437 Tantalus Rd.
Right on the Mamquam River in Brackendale is the Watershed Grill. “The Shed” offers top-notch viws of Squamish from the patio. 41101 Government Rd.
Voted the best breakfast place in town year after year, the Wildwood Restaurant.serves up delicious omelettes and a selection of hearty breads. This is the place to fuel up pre- or post-run (breakfast is served until 3 p.m. daily). The menu is large and the prices unbeatable. 38922 Progress Way
The Brackendale Bistro is only minutes away from the trails and offers a good menu of tasty breakfast items. They also have great lunch and dinner menus and a friendly, local vibe. 41703 Government Rd.
To Stay
The Executive Suites at the Garibaldi Springs Hotel is in the perfect spot for hitting the running routes. They have an indoor and outdoor pool, fitness room, restaurant and an 18-hole golf course. 40900 Tantalus Rd.
Useful Links
RUNNING ROUTES:
SHORT – 8K
Flat and Fast
The Cheekeye Fan Trail network in Brackendale is a great route with virtually no hills. Make your way to Don Ross Secondary School to park, cross the road and jump onto the well-maintained trails. Follow the trail-map sign-posts throughout the run. The perimeter loop has a gentle uphill grade as you climb parallel to Highway 99 and an equivalent downhill as you make your way back to the start. Plenty of inside trails offer more technical – but still fast – running.
MEDIUM – 15K
Alice and Back
This route will give you a true taste of Squamish running and will keep you coming back for more. Drive to the end of Perth Rd. to park; look for the Lumberjacks trail sign just below the roundabout, heading west. This course encompasses some of the best and most popular trails in Squamish, with a good selection of climbs, descents, singletrack and doubletrack. En route, you will pass through Alice Lake Provincial Park and experience the undulating Loop the Lakes Trails and the fast and twisty singletrack of Rob’s and Cliff’s Corners.
LONG – 22K
True Alpine
Drive up the Garibaldi Forest Service Road (18K up from Highway 99), following the signs to Garibaldi Provincial Park and the Red Heather trailhead. The run starts right from the parking lot and is well-marked the entire way. Beginning with a steady 5K climb, you’ll arrive at Red Heather Hut to enjoy outstanding views of Diamond Head and the Tantalus Range. Continue another 6K along some climbs and descents until you reach the hut at Elfin Lakes. Take in the views and experience paradise. The hard work is done as you reward yourself with the 11K return trip back to the start.
Jen Segger is an elite endurance athlete and coach living in – where else – Squamish, BC.
Check out the latest buyer's guide:
